A Monster Calls

By Joyce & Don Fowler
Posted 1/12/17

A MONSTER CALLS * * * * (Adult fairy tale) Lewis MacDougall plays 12-year-old Conor O'Malley, a kind of creepy, sullen kid who is bullied at school, has nightmares, and loves and cares for his ill mother (Felicity Jones), who is dying of cancer. Sound

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A Monster Calls

Posted

A MONSTER CALLS

* * * *

(Adult fairy tale)

Lewis MacDougall plays 12-year-old Conor O’Malley, a kind of creepy, sullen kid who is bullied at school, has nightmares, and loves and cares for his ill mother (Felicity Jones), who is dying of cancer.

Sound like another downer?

It is at times, but this is an adult fairy tale about hope, caring and, most important, being able to let go. Conor's dad has abandoned the family for a new life in America. When his "Mum" must go to the hospital, Conor's grandmother (Sigourney Weaver) takes him in. There is friction and dislike between the two, which brings forth some of Conor's rebellious side. Conor trashes his grandmother's living room and beats the stuffing out of the school bully, unable to control his anger and sense of hopelessness.

This poor kid needs some help in dealing with life, so who should appear at 12:07 on a number of nights but a gigantic tree that tells him three stories to help him cope. You will immediately recognize the deep, articulate voice of Liam Neeson, who tells the tales that are painted brilliantly across the screen. The Monster tells him that after hearing his stories, Conor must tell his own, which in effect will lead him to dealing with his situation.

"A Monster Calls" is one of the most surrealistic movies we have seen, beautifully photographed, acted and directed. You may leave a bit sad, and some may need a tissue, but the lessons taught and learned are important and profound ones.

Rated PG-13 with some frightening images and situations dealing with cancer and death, but showing hope for carrying on, making the PG-13 rating relevant for mature teens.

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